Self-seeded single-frequency solid-state ring laser and system using same
A method of operating a laser to obtain an output pulse having a single wavelength, comprises inducing an intracavity loss into a laser resonator having an amount that prevents oscillation during a time that energy from the pump source is being stored in the gain medium. Gain is built up in the gain medium with energy from the pump source until formation of a single-frequency relaxation oscillation pulse in the resonator. Upon detection of the onset of the relaxation oscillation pulse, the intracavity loss is reduced, such as by Q-switching, so that the built-up gain stored in the gain medium is output from the resonator in the form of an output pulse at a single frequency. An electronically controllable output coupler is controlled to affect output pulse characteristics. The laser acts a master oscillator in a master oscillator power amplifier configuration. The laser is used for laser peening.
- Research Organization:
- Metal Improvement Company, LLC, Paramus, NJ (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-48
- Assignee:
- Metal Improvement Company, LLC (Paramus, NJ)
- Patent Number(s):
- 7,180,918
- Application Number:
- 10/696,989
- OSTI ID:
- 1176122
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Self-seeded single-frequency laser peening method
Ring laser having an output at a single frequency